Cristiano Ronaldo's Authentic Bacalhau a Bras Recipe
Why You Will Love This Recipe
If you want a truly cozy and filling dinner, this authentic Bacalhau a Bras is exactly what you need in your kitchen. This hearty dish starts with high quality Portuguese salted cod that becomes incredibly tender. We mix that flaky fish into a traditional Bacalhau a Bras with matchstick potatoes and gently scramble in eggs to create a rich, creamy texture. It is wonderfully comforting.
Tips for Success
• If you prefer a lighter version, you can use less oil or substitute some of the olive oil with vegetable broth when sautéing the onions and garlic.
• For a different texture, you can use frozen hash browns in place of matchstick potatoes. Just make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before adding.
• Try adding diced bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor. Sauté them along with the onions for a few minutes before adding the garlic.
• If you cannot find black olives, green olives or capers can be used as a substitute to maintain a briny flavor.
• For a more aromatic dish, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a bay leaf while cooking the cod in water for a subtle depth of flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh cod instead of salted cod for this recipe?
Yes, you can use fresh cod, but it will not have the same depth of flavor as using salted cod. You will need to season the dish with additional salt to taste since fresh cod does not have the natural saltiness of salted varieties.
How should I store leftover Bacalhau a Bras?
Store leftover Bacalhau a Bras in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.
What can I use as a substitute for matchstick potatoes?
You can use thinly sliced or grated potatoes instead of matchstick potatoes. Alternatively, if you prefer a healthier option, you may use cooked and diced sweet potatoes to add a different flavor.
Recommended Drink Pairings
- Vinho Verde: This light and refreshing Portuguese wine complements the saltiness of the cod and balances the richness of the dish.
- Alvarinho: A crisp white wine with citrus notes that enhances the flavors of the garlic and parsley in the recipe.
- Sparkling Water: The effervescence cleanses the palate between bites, making it a great non-alcoholic option.
- Chardonnay: A fuller-bodied white wine that pairs well with the creamy texture of the eggs and the richness of the olive oil.
- Green Tea: The subtle bitterness of green tea provides a nice contrast to the savory elements of the dish.
Ingredients
Equipment:
Directions
- Rinse the salted cod under cold water, place it in a large bowl of cold water, and keep it in the refrigerator for 24 to 48 hours, changing the water two to three times a day to remove the excess salt.
- Place the desalted cod in a pot of gently boiling water and cook for 10 to 15 minutes until tender.
- Remove the cod from the water, let it cool, and carefully discard the skin and bones before flaking the fish into small bite-sized shreds.
- Heat the olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium heat and add the thinly sliced onions, sautéing slowly for about 10 minutes until incredibly soft and translucent without browning.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 additional minute.
- Stir the flaked cod into the skillet with the onions and garlic, cooking for 3 to 4 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Fold in the matchstick potatoes, gently tossing everything together until the potatoes are heated through and slightly softened by the oil.
- Lower the heat to medium-low and pour the beaten eggs evenly over the cod and potato mixture.
- Stir constantly and gently for a couple of minutes so the eggs bind the ingredients into a creamy texture without turning into dry scrambled eggs.
- Remove the skillet from the heat immediately while the eggs are still slightly wet as they will continue to cook in the residual heat.
- Season with black pepper and a pinch of salt after tasting, since the cod usually retains some natural saltiness.
- Transfer the mixture to a serving dish and top generously with the black olives and fresh chopped parsley.
Recipe Credit: PR





